Three Tynedale middle schools attended the national finals of the Young Green Briton Challenge on July 4.

With representation from Hexham, St Joseph's, and Corbridge Middle, these students made Tynedale proud amidst around 3,000 participants countrywide.

The challenge encourages students to learn about climate issues and develop ideas to positively impact their schools.

As a part of the selection process, Year seven pupils presented their projects to a regional Dragon’s Den in April.

Hexham Middle's project Let the Flowers Beegin, aimed at promoting pollinators, got them through to the finals.

St Joseph’s MUNCH Bin, an initiative to reduce textile waste and Corbridge Middle's Fashion Frogs, a project to decrease clothing waste by reusing uniforms and manufacturing teddy bears from old jumpers, were the two other projects that represented Tynedale.

Glen Sanderson, leader of Northumberland County Council and cabinet member for climate change, said: "It was a delight for us to host the Regional Finals of the Young Green Briton Challenge at the Council's headquarters in County Hall, Morpeth.

"The innovation and dedication displayed by these young people is truly inspiring.

"Their projects not only reflect a deep understanding of critical environmental issues but also demonstrate their unwavering commitment to making a real difference in their communities.”

Prominent figures like Jennifer Brown from Egger and Tudor Skelly from Northumberland County Council supported the students' journey to the finals.

They mentored the Young Green Briton Challenge and also helped to organise the regional finals.

Generous financial support from Vattenfall and RED Engineering also enabled Corbridge Middle to participate.

The finals saw Tynedale taking home two major awards.

Corbridge Middle's Fashion Frogs won the Best Fast Fashion Project, and Hexham Middle's Let the Flowers Beegin claimed the Best Biodiversity Project.

Both winning teams secured a £700 prize, which will fuel their ongoing work towards a greener tomorrow.

The Young Green Briton Challenge is a partnership initiative, now in its second successful year among GenEarth, Social Innovation for All, Ministry of Eco Education, and Green Britain Foundation.